The role of PI3Kγ in the immune system: new insights and translational implications

Nat Rev Immunol. 2022 Nov;22(11):687-700. doi: 10.1038/s41577-022-00701-8. Epub 2022 Mar 23.

Abstract

Over the past two decades, new insights have positioned phosphoinositide 3-kinase-γ (PI3Kγ) as a context-dependent modulator of immunity and inflammation. Recent advances in protein structure determination and drug development have allowed for generation of highly specific PI3Kγ inhibitors, with the first now in clinical trials for several oncology indications. Recently, a monogenic immune disorder caused by PI3Kγ deficiency was discovered in humans and modelled in mice. Human inactivated PI3Kγ syndrome confirms the immunomodulatory roles of PI3Kγ and strengthens newly defined roles of this molecule in modulating inflammatory cytokine release in macrophages. Here, we review the functions of PI3Kγ in the immune system and discuss how our understanding of its potential as a therapeutic target has evolved.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Class Ib Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Macrophages / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases* / metabolism
  • Phosphoinositide-3 Kinase Inhibitors

Substances

  • Class Ib Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase
  • Phosphoinositide-3 Kinase Inhibitors